Delhi Government Tightens Dust Control Norms, Makes 100 GSM Green Nets Mandatory at C&D Sites

New Delhi, May 12: Delhi has mandated high-density dust screens of at least 100 GSM at all construction and demolition sites to combat air pollution. This move follows CAQM guidelines to effectively contain PM2.5 and PM10 at the source.

New Technical Specifications

The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has issued directions that the minimum thickness of green nets to be used at C&D sites must be 100 GSM (grams per square metre), with immediate compliance required. Earlier norms required tarpaulin covers or green nets but prescribed no minimum technical specification. The new 100 GSM standard ensures dust barriers effectively contain particulate matter at the source.

Government's Commitment

Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said, "Delhi's fight against air pollution is being pursued with urgency, seriousness and a whole-of-government approach. High-density dust screens are essential for effective dust containment. By prescribing a minimum 100 GSM standard, the government is ensuring that dust mitigation at construction sites is practical, measurable and enforceable."

Dust Portal 2.0 for Monitoring

The government is also working on "Dust Portal 2.0", a centralized digital platform aimed at monitoring and regulating C&D sites across Delhi. Registration of C&D sites on the dust portal has already been made mandatory, and officials said the upgraded platform would improve compliance tracking, transparency and enforcement.

Implementation Agencies

The decision follows directions issued by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), which laid down guidelines for dust pollution control and inspection SOPs for C&D projects. The DPCC has issued directions for implementation to agencies including MCD, NDMC, DDA, DMRC, CPWD and PWD for immediate compliance.